The tecomaria, also known as orange bignonia, Cape honeysuckle or tecoma capensis, is one of the most appreciated ornamental plants for gardens thanks to the intensity of its orange flowers and the ease of its cultivation. In this article, you'll discover everything you need to know about its unique botanical characteristics, its origin, the ideal environment for planting it, the specific care it requires, pruning, the best substrate, its propagation, how to avoid pests and diseases, ornamental uses, and answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you're looking for a hardy climber with spectacular flowering, read on and become an expert in growing orange bignonia.
Main characteristics of the orange bignonia (tecoma capensis)
La tecomaria It is a vigorous shrub that can behave as a climber if given adequate support. It stands out for its rapid growth, reaching heights of between 3 and 6 meters. Depending on the conditions and available space, if not controlled by pruning, it can even reach 8 meters in optimal areas.
Its leaves are evergreen or semi-evergreen Depending on the climate: in temperate regions, they remain green year-round, while in colder regions, they may partially lose their green color in winter. The leaves are compound, with 7 to 9 oval-shaped leaflets and slightly serrated margins, a deep, glossy green that adds lushness to the garden even in the darkest seasons.
The most striking thing about the orange bignonia is its tubular flowers in deep orange or reddish tones, grouped in terminal clusters up to 15 cm long. Each flower measures between 6 and 8 cm long, with a tubular shape that facilitates visits by pollinating insects and birds such as hummingbirds, which feed on the nectar.
Su Main flowering occurs between autumn and winter, although in warm climates it can also bloom during spring and summer, and even almost year-round. This makes it one of the few plants capable of providing color and life in the colder months, making the garden more attractive while other species are dormant.
The fruit consists of an elongated capsule containing numerous seeds that allow it to propagate. Furthermore, the plant can be propagated through shoots or stem cuttings, rooting easily when they come into contact with the appropriate substrate.
- Woody stems and flexible, ideal for guiding on walls, pergolas or fences.
- Holding organs: The stems are attached by tendrils and adventitious roots, although sometimes they need to be trained or anchored with wires.
- Adaptable size: It can be used as a shrub, ground cover or ornamental climber depending on the needs of the space.
- Coverage capacity and leafiness: perfect for hiding walls or creating dense, colorful hedges during the winter.
Caution: If the orange bignonia isn't pruned and trained promptly, it can overwhelm other plants and deprive them of light, hindering their photosynthesis. It's not a parasitic species, but it is highly competitive for space.
Origin and distribution of Tecomaria capensis
La Orange bignonia is native to southern Africa, especially from South Africa, Swaziland, and southern Mozambique, where it grows naturally on rocky slopes, open areas, and poor soils. It is extremely hardy and adapts to sunny, dry environments.
Given its ease of propagation and ornamental appeal, it has spread to many temperate and subtropical regions. Today, it can be found:
- In regions of the Mediterranean coast, both in private and public gardens.
- Asia, Hawaii and South America, where it is widely cultivated.
- In areas of the South of Europe, Australia and mild climate islands.
On some islands, such as the Azores, the orange bignonia has become naturalized and, due to its vigorous growth, has been classified as Invasive species.
Requirements for growing orange bignonia
To achieve a healthy and spectacular orange bignonia, it's essential to provide the right environment and respect its basic needs. Below are all the key aspects of growing it:
- Light and exposure: The tecomaria needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day to bloom profusely. If planted in less bright locations, flowering is significantly reduced and may lose some of its vigor. In areas with very hot summers, some afternoon shade is appreciated to prevent leaf burn.
- Temperature: It is a resistant species that supports light frosts down to -8°C Once well established, it can lose its leaves in winter in very cold climates, only sprouting vigorously in spring. If grown in a pot in cold areas, it should be protected from severe frost.
- Ground: Prefer light, well-drained soils with neutral or slightly acidic pH. It tolerates poor soils, but grows best in soil rich in organic matter. Avoid alkaline soils to prevent chlorosis (yellowing of the leaves). If the substrate is alkaline, improve the plant's health by adding iron chelates.
- Irrigation: It's a plant drought resistant Once established, watering should be moderate, allowing the topsoil to dry between waterings. During periods of intense heat, increase the frequency, but in fall and winter, reduce watering to a minimum, avoiding excess moisture to prevent fungus and root rot.
- Ventilation and protection: It tolerates wind well, but in extremely cold climates, it is best to protect it from very strong or freezing currents.
Additional soil and compost tips: The orange bignonia adapts to a variety of soil compositions, but appreciates a mixture of mulch, sand, and compost or manure, especially when planting or after pruning. Go easy on the fertilizer, but add organic fertilizer in early spring to encourage flowering.
Basic care and maintenance of the orange bignonia
- Pruning: Pruning is essential to control size and promote abundant flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring, removing dead, weak, or diseased branches. You can also prune lightly after each bloom to maintain a more compact appearance and encourage more flower-bearing shoots. If grown in a pot, it's advisable to prune more regularly to prevent overgrowth. Removing faded flowers prolongs the blooming period.
- Tutoring and guiding: If you want the plant to climb, guide the stems from the start with wires, mesh, or pergolas. In small gardens, regular pruning will prevent it from encroaching on other areas.
- Subscriber: Fertilize with manure or organic compost after pruningYou can also apply a balanced fertilizer (NPK type 10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during spring and summer, always using a moderate amount. Reduce fertilization starting in the fall to allow for dormancy.
- Irrigation: During spring and summer, water 2-3 times a week if there's no rain, and every 10-15 days in autumn and winter. Make sure the substrate dries out before watering again.
- Multiplication: The orange bignonia is easily multiplied by cuttings or seeds, at any time. The fastest method is using semi-woody cuttings, which root in moist soil within a few weeks. Seeds are sown in spring, but take longer to germinate.
- Diseases and pests: The main threats are Whiteflies and mealybugs can attack if there is excess moisture and poor ventilation. Fungi such as Botrytis, Cescospora leaf spot, and, in the soil, root nematodes can also appear. Monitor the underside of the leaves and act quickly with specific products if you detect an infestation. Keeping the plant well-aerated and free of excess water is the best prevention.
Ornamental uses and possibilities of the orange bignonia
La tecomaria It is an extremely versatile plant in gardening:
- As a climber on pergolas, fences and walls: It covers vertical surfaces quickly and provides long-lasting color.
- As an isolated shrub or in groups: It provides volume and flowers in medium and large-sized gardens.
- Hedges and plant covers: Offers privacy and protection year-round.
- In large pots: Perfect for patios, terraces or balconies if properly trained using stakes.
- Attracting beneficial wildlife: Its flowers attract butterflies, bees and nectar-eating birds such as hummingbirds, promoting the biodiversity of the garden.
Furthermore, it is perfectly resistant to wind and urban environments, which is why it is also widely used in urban parks and public gardens. Its easy maintenance makes it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners or those looking for a low-maintenance garden.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orange Bignonia and Additional Tips
- When does the orange bignonia bloom? In warm climates, it can bloom almost year-round, but primarily in autumn and winter. In colder areas, its flowering is seasonal, concentrated in spring and summer.
- Is the orange bignonia suitable for indoors? It's best grown outdoors due to its need for direct sunlight and space. You can try growing it indoors in bright conditions, near south-facing windows, but flowering will be much less frequent and growth will be limited.
- Can it be grown in a pot? Yes, as long as the pot is large and the soil has excellent drainage. You'll need to prune more often to keep it compact.
- What to do if yellow leaves appear? It's usually due to chlorosis from alkaline soils or iron deficiency. Apply iron chelates and improve the substrate to restore a healthy green color.
- Is orange bignonia toxic to pets? There are no reports of significant toxicity to dogs, cats, or humans, but it's always best to monitor the behavior of curious pets.
The orange bignonia is positioned as one of the best options for adding color, life, and vibrancy to your garden during fall and winter, all with minimal maintenance. Its hardiness, spectacular blooms, and adaptability make it an essential plant in both classic and modern gardens. With a simple guide and a little care, you'll be guaranteed success and a floral display year after year.
